09 Sep 2022 | 10:03 AM UTC
Chad: Police use teargas to disperse opposition activists in front of N'Djamena's courthouse, Sept. 9
Police use teargas to disperse opposition activists in front of N'Djamena's courthouse, Chad, Sept. 9. Avoid area.
Event
Police have used teargas to disperse activists affiliated with the opposition Les Transformateurs party in front of N'Djamena's courthouse Sept. 9. Hundreds of protesters had gathered in support of the party's leader, Success Mara, who had been summoned by the N'Djamena prosecutor following protests in the capital Sept. 1-3; the protests were to denounce Chad's ruling military junta and demand a return to democratic civilian rule.
Heightened security measures are likely around N'Djamena's courthouse Sept. 9. Further clashes between demonstrators and police are possible. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely. Activist groups may organize further related protests in other parts of the city with little to no warning.
Context
The action by Les Transformateurs is part of a broader campaign by political opposition groups pushing for the immediate return to civilian rule through democratic elections. The Transitional Military Council (TMC) has taken a strong stance against such demonstrations; a ban on protest activity has been in effect since April 2021.
Chad's political and security environment remains unstable following the April 20, 2021, death of longtime President Idriss Deby Itno. The appointment of the late president's son, Mahamat Deby Itno, as the head of the TMC, along with an 18-month transition period, as well as the suspension of both the constitution and the National Assembly, sparked nationwide protests against the transitional government. The transitional government has suppressed opposition groups from peacefully demonstrating, and security forces have been accused of human rights abuses associated with the use of excessive force against protesters.
Advice
Avoid the protest area Sept. 9. Allow extra time to reach destinations near rally locations; plan alternative routes if necessary. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.
